British News Agency

The US accuses Hamas of making unrealistic demands that delay the ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. This week, the US presented a mediation proposal. According to the proposal, the ceasefire will be extended until March. Hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for Palestinians detained in Israel, and the flow of aid to Gaza will be allowed.

The proposal does not require the implementation of the second phase of the agreement between Israel and Hamas, which was expected to take effect at the beginning of the month.

The US government statement did not specify Hamas' demands but emphasized that implementing the proposal as soon as possible is urgent.

"Hamas is fully aware of the deadline, and when that deadline expires, they should understand that we will respond accordingly," it stated, without specifying the exact deadline.

The second phase has become the biggest challenge in the negotiations. Israel insists on extending the first phase, while Hamas demands adherence to the original agreement. To pressure Hamas into accepting the extension, Israel has halted aid deliveries to Gaza.

Yesterday, Hamas announced that it was ready to release American and Israeli hostages in exchange for starting the second-phase talks and opening aid to Gaza. Israel rejected the offer, accusing Hamas of psychological warfare.

As the negotiations continue, the situation for Palestinians in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The United Nations World Food Programme has been unable to deliver any food supplies to Gaza since March 2.